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Camel illness in Cholistan under control, says Livestock Department

By
Asif Jalal
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0
BAHAWALPUR, Nov 26 (APP): Special Secretary Livestock South Punjab Asad Naeem, while addressing a press conference at the Livestock Complex Bahawalpur, said that the alleged illness affecting camels in Cholistan is being closely monitored and the situation is completely under control.
He reported that special teams of the Livestock Department have medically examined 11,597 camels, out of which only 1,100 showed symptoms of illness. All affected camels were immediately treated and vaccinated.
The special secretary said that after receiving medication, sick camels show clear improvement within two to three days, and the disease is not spreading on a large scale. He added that the illness has now been contained, and samples have been sent to laboratories in Lahore and Islamabad for further scientific analysis. He further stated that 52 samples have been dispatched to modern livestock laboratories in Lahore and Islamabad to identify the exact nature and causes of the illness. Five different types of medicines are being used for treatment, including those for flu, respiratory issues, and related infections.
Director General Livestock Dr. Ashraf told the press that he conducted random sampling of large camel herds at six to seven different locations across Cholistan and also gathered feedback from local herders. He clarified that so far, only 10 camel deaths have been confirmed, and reports suggesting higher numbers are baseless and incorrect. According to him, the treatment being administered is proving 100 percent effective, and the disease resembles the one detected in 2014–15. The same treatment protocol has now been applied successfully to contain the current situation.
He said that 10 response teams, more than 200 paravets, and 18 mobile veterinary dispensaries have been deployed across Cholistan to assist and guide camel owners. No camel deaths have been reported in the last 24 hours. The Livestock Department has advised herders to regularly clean nasal discharge from camels to prevent breathing difficulties and to immediately report any sick animal to the Livestock teams as a precautionary measure. The department confirmed that the overall health situation of camels in Cholistan is fully under control. Additional Secretary Administration Livestock South Punjab Farooq Qamar and other officers were also present at the press conference.

DIG directs to intensify security arrangements at all districts

By
Asif Jalal
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0
HYDERABAD, Nov 26 (APP): Deputy Inspector General Police Shaheed Benazirabad Range, Faisal Bashir Memon, has directed all districts under the range to intensify security arrangements.
This step was taken in view of the country’s overall security situation and recent terrorist attacks.
According to issued directives, security has been further strengthened across police stations, government offices, residential complexes, check-posts, headquarters and other sensitive locations. DIG instructed all SSPs to ensure that SDPOs, SHOs, check-post in-charges, mobile units, 15 responders and officers deployed at pickets strictly enforce the new security measures.
DIG Faisal Bashir Memon emphasized the mandatory use of bulletproof jackets during duty. He also directed increased mobile and motorcycle patrolling, enhanced snap-checking and strict monitoring of suspicious individuals and vehicles.
Security checks at all entry and exit points of the districts have also been expanded. Meanwhile officers and personnel have been instructed to remain vigilant, maintain situational awareness and stay on high alert to respond quickly to any unforeseen incident.
According to police PRO, control rooms have also been placed on high alert, while the intelligence network has been activated to ensure effective surveillance at hotels, public places, and recreational spots.
DIG said that hostile elements may attempt to exploit the current situation for disruptive activities. Therefore, extraordinary vigilance and effective monitoring at every level are essential across the range. He added that the police force will continue to take all necessary steps for public safety while prioritizing the security of its own personnel.

Karoonjhar, an asset of Sindh, to be protected: Murad Shah

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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KARACHI, Nov 26 (APP):Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah on Wednesday reaffirmed his government’s commitment to protecting Karoonjhar Hills, declaring it a cultural and environmental asset of the province.
 “Karoonjhar is our treasure; we will not allow any damage to it,” he said while speaking to the media just after addressing a gathering of education leaders, healthcare experts, policymakers, and industry representatives at an event organised by the Sindh Higher Education Commission (Sindh HEC) on the theme “Sustaining Healthcare Gains through Policy Innovation” at a local hotel.
Drawing parallels with past criticism of Thar Coal, the chief minister said, “People used to raise similar objections 10 to 15 years ago. Today, Thar has transformed Pakistan and is helping power the nation. We are producing affordable electricity from Thar coal, and the entire country is benefitting.”
CM Shah said the government respected the ancient and historical significance of Karoonjhar and would not compromise on its preservation. “Anyone creating hurdles in the path of development will be convinced through dialogue,” he added.
Responding to questions about the proposed 27th Constitutional Amendment, Chief Minister Murad Shah stated that constitutional amendments are a normal global practice. “Parliaments across the world amend constitutions and laws as societies evolve. I do not know what the specific objections are this time,” he remarked.
Murad Shah said the newly created Federal Constitutional Courts were not new judges but senior judges from the Supreme Court and High Courts. “These courts will reduce the burden on regular courts and ease difficulties for ordinary litigants. Thousands of cases were pending. I don’t understand why some lawyers oppose this convenience.”
CM emphasised that he holds the legal fraternity in high regard.
The CM criticised road closures and street protests by some lawyers, saying, “Coming out on the roads and causing inconvenience to citizens is not acceptable. If lawyers want to talk to the government or Parliament, they are welcome.
Chief Minister Shah said PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari had played a key role in creating a conducive environment for discussion on the 26th and now 27th amendments. “There will be no secret amendments. Everything will come openly before the public,” he assured.
Regarding the National Finance Commission (NFC), the Chief Minister clarified that the Prime Minister had not yet discussed any NFC-related matters with him. “The first meeting of the NFC is on December 4. All four provinces and the federation work together on the NFC. Provinces present their positions; the PM’s role comes later.”
Murad Shah explained that the NFC Award is finalised by the Commission and then sent to the President of Pakistan. “We take guidance from the Prime Minister, our party leadership, and experts, but the decision is ultimately made by the National Finance Commission.”
Shah highlighted the Sindh government’s strong performance in public-private partnerships (PPP).
Sindh chief reiterated that objections regarding constitutional courts and amendments should be addressed through legal forums. “Those whose job is to give arguments should avoid actions that cause public inconvenience.
Addressing a seminar by Sindh HEC, Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah highlighted the need for evidence-based policies, public-private partnerships, and skilled professionals to further Sindh’s healthcare sector. He appreciated the creation of the Directorate of Strategic Planning at Sindh HEC and its initiative to form thematic think tanks that will develop practical recommendations for policy reforms across healthcare, education, and other sectors.
Shah emphasised that his government is committed to considering such recommendations, underscoring the importance of research and data in decision-making.
He praised Sindh HEC for building research linkages and fostering collaboration between universities, industry, and healthcare, noting progress in areas like maternal and child health, advanced care, and medical technology.

Safety First: Go-Arounds Are Standard, Not Alarming: PAA

By
Asif Jalal
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0
ISLAMABAD, Nov 26 (APP): The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has urged media organizations to avoid sensationalizing routine aviation procedures, following a recent go-around maneuver performed by flight SV728 at Islamabad International Airport.
According to the PAA, the go-around , in which an aircraft discontinues its landing approach and circles for another attempt,  was carried out in full accordance with established international aviation protocols. Officials emphasized that the maneuver is a standard, non-emergency procedure performed worldwide to ensure maximum safety during landing.
“Go-arounds are common and executed strictly as a precautionary measure,” the authority stated, noting that misreporting such events can create unwarranted anxiety among passengers and the general public.
The PAA highlighted the crucial role of responsible journalism in shaping public understanding of aviation safety and encouraged media outlets to verify information before reporting.
Reaffirming its commitment to transparency, the authority noted that safety remains its top priority across all airports in Pakistan.

CM, China-Africa & Asia Economic Trade team agree on strategic biotechnology

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
KARACHI, Nov 26 (APP):Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah hosted a high-stakes meeting with the China-Africa & Asia Economic Trade Cooperation delegation and representatives from Louyang Modern Biology, proposing extensive bilateral and triangular collaboration in biotechnology, agriculture modernization, and livestock development.
The Chief Minister highlighted Sindh as a “growth-ready province” with vast potential, particularly in its 14 million acres of fertile land and expanding industrial zones.
The meeting held at CM House was attended by Minister of Transport Sharjeel memon, Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar, Minister of Fisheries & Livestock Mohammad Ali Malkani, Secretary to CM Raheem Shaikh, Secretary Fisheries & Livestock Kazim Jatoi and others.
The Chinese delegation, led by Hao Yuejiao, included senior officials from Louyang Modern Biology – Wang Shanpu, Wang Chuangye, Bai Xue, Yao Shunli, and Zhang Xingwei. The Chief Minister warmly welcomed the visitors and reaffirmed the deep-rooted friendship and strategic partnership between Pakistan and China.
Positioned as a growth-ready province: Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah highlighted Sindh’s vision for industrial modernization, biotechnology development, and agri-value chain expansion. “Sindh today is a growth-ready province, supported by strong institutions, enabling policies, and major infrastructure development,” he told the delegation.
Shah invited Chinese firms to explore high-value investment opportunities in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, smart agriculture, and livestock innovation.
The meeting discussed several potential areas of cooperation, including the establishment of biotechnology R&D laboratories in Karachi or Hyderabad. Joint ventures in medicinal plants, organic fertilizers, bio-agriculture, and veterinary health. Transfer of climate-resilient, high-yield crop technologies.
Development of smart farming systems and modern seed research centres. Setting up bio-fertilizer production units across Sindh. The Chief Minister said Sindh’s 14 million acres of fertile agricultural land and expanding industrial zones provide an ideal environment for large-scale Chinese investment.
The China-Africa & Asia Economic Trade Promotion organisation was urged to facilitate export linkages for Sindh’s textile, leather, seafood, rice, and agri-products.
Highlighting investment-ready industrial zones, Chief Minister Murad Shah invited the delegation to explore the Dhabeji Special Economic Zone, Khairpur SEZ and Nooriabad industrial area.
The CM assured investors of fast-track facilitation under Sindh’s new One-Stop Investment Desk, along with land allocation, regulatory approvals, and incentives available under federal and provincial SEZ laws.
A major portion of the discussion focused on livestock biotechnology, vaccine production, disease diagnostics, and traceability systems.
The delegation was briefed on the potential of Pakistan’s livestock sector, which contributes 14.97 per cent to national GDP, holds 237 million livestock heads, and produces 72 million tons of milk, with Sindh contributing 23–27 per cent to the national share.
Areas identified for cooperation included livestock tagging and traceability systems under a public-private partnership. Vaccine production and bulk packaging through a joint venture with the Sindh Institute of Animal Health. Advanced disease diagnostic platforms with technology transfer and operationalization of the Sindh Livestock Registration and Trading Authority.
It was agreed that Sindh will form a task group under the provincial Minister for Livestock & Fisheries, Mohammad Ali Malkani, to implement the MoUs signed between Pakistan and China regarding livestock cooperation.
The Chief Minister and visiting delegation agreed signing of the MoU and Joint Venture (JV) agreements with Louyang Modern Biology and the Sindh Institute of Animal Health.
Resolution of operational, logistical, and financial aspects for vaccine manufacturing partnerships, launch of Phase-III investor solicitation for livestock tagging and traceability and formation of a follow-up working group meeting next week to finalize actionable plans were also decided.

DC chairs meeting of District Coordination Committee

By
Asif Jalal
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0
HYDERABAD, Nov 26 (APP): Deputy Commissioner Shaheed Benazirabad, Abdul Samad Nizamani, chaired a meeting of District Coordination Committee on the National Action Plan/Apex Committee at Darbar Hall on Wednesday.
The meeting reviewed about security of foreign nationals residing in the district, security arrangements for the upcoming Lahooti Mela, measures to curb diesel and petrol smuggling and steps to eliminate encroachments.
Deputy Commissioner directed all concerned departments to accelerate actions and initiatives being carried out under the National Action Plan and Apex Committee directives.
Committee decided that action would be expedited against fuel stations operating without a K-form or lacking proper registration.
The committee also resolved to intensify the ongoing campaign against illegal encroachments across the district. Officials from Customs, Police, Rescue 1122, Anti-Encroachment Force, Special Branch, law enforcement agencies, and other relevant departments attended the meeting.

Two killed, 15 injured in Swabi vehicles’ collision

By
Asif Jalal
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0
PESHAWAR, Nov 26 (APP): A collision between a passenger bus and coach at Shewa Adda Chowk in SwabiI district on Wednesday resulted in the death of a 15-year-old boy and the coach driver on the spot.
Fifteen passengers inside the coach also sustained serious injuries in the crash.
Police said, the coach was traveling from Batkhela to Islamabad. All passengers aboard the coach belonged to the same family.
The injured were given first aid before being shifted to Bacha Khan Medical Complex and Pura Kalu Khan Hospital for further treatment.

Police welfare cheque distribution ceremony held at DIG Shaheed Benazirabad office

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
HYDERABAD, Nov 26 (APP):A police welfare cheque distribution ceremony was held at the office of Deputy Inspector General Police, Shaheed Benazirabad Range.
The event was organized under the directives of DIGP Faisal Bashir Memon.
During the ceremony, SSPs of all three districts under the Shaheed Benazirabad Range distributed police welfare cheques among 102 police personnel.
The distribution included marriage grants for 50 cases, retirement grants for 35 cases, and immediate relief cheques for 17 cases. Accountant Muhammad Bakhsh Rind of SBA Range Office was also present on the occasion.

Jinnah International Airport holds FOD awareness walk to reinforce air-side safety

By
Asif Jalal
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0
ISLAMABAD, Nov 26 (APP): Reaffirming its commitment to global aviation safety protocols, Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport on Wednesday led a Foreign Object Debris (FOD) awareness walk, uniting key aviation stakeholders in a proactive effort to maintain a hazard-free air-side environment.
As part of its ongoing drive to promote safe, clean and compliant air-side operations, the initiative aligns with international aviation safety standards and aims to minimize risks posed by foreign objects on runways, taxiways and apron areas.
The Airport Manager, accompanied by senior officials of the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA), led the walk from Domestic Arrivals through to International Arrivals.
Representatives from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), multiple airlines, and ground handling service providers also joined the activity.
Participants inspected key movement areas, removing small debris items to demonstrate the shared responsibility required to safeguard aircraft operations.
FOD is a recognized global risk factor, capable of causing serious damage to aircraft engines and systems, making such awareness efforts pivotal for operational reliability.
Commending the collective participation, the Airport Manager reiterated PAA’s commitment to upholding world-class aviation safety standards across Pakistan’s airports. He emphasized that regular awareness activities help cultivate a safety-first culture and ensure continuous compliance with international best practices.

Policy dialogue maps vision for CPEC 2.0

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
ISLAMABAD, Nov 26 (APP):A high-level policy dialogue in Islamabad has outlined an ambitious roadmap for CPEC 2.0 and a stronger Pakistan-China partnership in a rapidly evolving geo-economic landscape.
Hosted by Beaconhouse National University’s Center for Policy Research (BCPR) in collaboration with the Understanding China Forum (UCF), the event brought together senior diplomats, scholars, security experts and policymakers to examine how Pakistan can leverage regional connectivity amid shifting global power dynamics.
Policy dialogue maps vision for CPEC 2.0
 Dr. Moeed Yusuf, former National Security Advisor and currently Vice Chancellor of BNU, proposed a “China–South Asia + Central Asia” economic framework.
China’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Jiang Zaidong, delivered the keynote, marking the formal launch of “CPEC 2.0.”
Citing completed investments worth US $25.93 billion, over 8,000 MW of power generation and 261,000 jobs, he announced major new industrial ventures, including a US $400 million Haier appliance park and a US $150 million textile park by Challenge Group.
Policy dialogue maps vision for CPEC 2.0
He reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to fast-tracking the Karakoram Highway realignment, developing Gwadar as a connectivity hub, and expanding CPEC cooperation toward Central Asia and the Middle East.
Experts emphasized the need for predictable regulatory frameworks, inclusive economic opportunities, improved productivity, and a shift toward private-sector–driven growth.
Speakers also highlighted challenges ranging from information warfare to modernization and regional security.
Policy dialogue maps vision for CPEC 2.0
Maritime connectivity, the role of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, and community engagement in CPEC projects were identified as critical to future success.
Participants collectively agreed that as Pakistan and China approach 75 years of diplomatic relations, CPEC 2.0 represents a vital opportunity to redefine Pakistan’s role in an emerging multipolar order.
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